At this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, during a very short sit-down with Psych‘s James Roday, he was asked about where he drew inspiration from when developing his character, Shawn Spencer. His answer: Val Kilmer in Real Genius.
“I grew up sort of loving Eddie Murphy, loving Chevy Chase, loving Steve Martin, and then when I was ten I saw Real Genius, and it took it to a whole new level. I thought, that character that Val Kilmer played in that movie was, to me, the most iconic; a “I want to be that guy” sort-of character. I haven’t had that kind of experience since. But that was certainly the inspiration for this character. It’s my chance to be Chris Knight.
“If you go back, especially earlier in the series, it’s actually pretty shameless how much I’m channeling that guy.”
As soon as Roday made that mention, I totally got it. I’ve seen Real Genius more times than I can remember, and Shawn Spencer really does channel Chris Knight most uncannily.
In fact, Roday is so much a fan of Real Genius that Val Kilmer is high up (if not number one) on his wish list of guest stars for Psych. In an upcoming episode, John Gries — who played Lazlo Hollyfield in Real Genius — is making a cameo appearance. I think it’s high time Val Kilmer make an appearance on the show, don’t you think? I mean, what the hell else is the guy working on now? MacGruber?
If you haven’t seen Real Genius, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Go buy or rent it today, then curl up on the couch with a BIG pan of Jiffy Pop. Yeah, YOU know what I’m talkin’ ’bout.
Clacked by Keith McDuffee 
on Aug 17, 2010 @ 15:20 EST5EDT
While Real Genius was iconic, it was all about Top Secret for me. So, so funny.
Definitely see the connection. I loved Real Genius (still do) and have watched it over and over again.
<— Admits his stupidity for not making this connection before.
Ok… seriously.. Where did you hear that John Gries would be making a cameo!? Was it something said at Comic-con!? If so, where can I find this!? Please let me know! Thanks!
*POST AUTHOR*
James Roday mentioned it at the set visit recently. I just read the transcripts from the interviews and saw he mentioned it. Maybe An will mention it again from when she attended:
https://cliqueclack.com/tv/2010/08/19/a-visit-to-the-set-of-psych-part-one/
I read that article earlier. I didn’t see any mention of John’s name there. Or did you mean that you were at the set visit and heard James say that? (sorry if I’m being confusing. It’s not even 8am and I’m really tired. haha)
*POST AUTHOR*
No, it wasn’t in that post. Writer An attended the set visit and I got a copy of the interview transcripts. It was mentioned in those.